Manipulation Device for Small Workpiece Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional processing machines are limited in processing workpieces with smaller dimensions due to the inability to effectively pick up and convey small workpieces from their processing position.
Innovation Solution
A manipulation device is designed to feed workpieces from their processing position to the conveying device, featuring a gripper area that can reach under a traverse, equipped with a workpiece manipulation element such as a suction cup, allowing for temporary mechanical connection and movement of small workpieces to the conveyor device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the conveyor device is arranged to convey workpieces under the traverse, then the processing unit can reach any point on the workpiece, but small workpieces cannot be picked up by the conveyor device from their processing position
Solution Approach 1:
A manipulation device is introduced as an intermediary between the processing unit and the conveying device. This manipulation device includes a manipulation element that can assume a workpiece-manipulating position beneath the traverse to pick up small workpieces from the processing position, then transfer them to the conveying device. The manipulation device acts as a mediator that enables workpiece handling in the narrow space under the traverse where the conveying device cannot directly access the processing position.
2Extent of automation
If the manipulation device is accommodated on the same side of the traverse as the processing unit, then both can be moved along the traverse, but they interfere with each other's operation
Solution Approach 1:
The manipulation device is positioned on the opposite side of the traverse relative to the processing unit, utilizing the vertical dimension and lateral space beneath the traverse. This spatial arrangement in another dimension allows both the processing unit and manipulation device to operate simultaneously without interference, while both remain movable along the traverse direction.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the processing and conveyance of smaller workpieces by allowing the manipulation device to reach and grasp workpieces under the traverse, facilitating their movement to the conveyor device without interfering with the processing unit, thus expanding the size range of workpieces that can be processed.
Implementation Method 1
both systems based on negative pressure and other mechanical solutions, such as grippers or friction elements acting on the workpiece, are possible
Data Source
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AI summary
Such a manipulation device (1) for a processing machine is designed to fix plate-shaped workpieces (8) made of wood or wood substitute materials in a processing position and to process them with a processing unit, in particular one mounted on a traverse (2), and subsequently to convey them by means of a conveying device (5). In order to provide a processing machine that allows the processing of workpieces (8) with smaller dimensions than is the case with conventional processing machines, a manipulation device (1) is designed to feed the workpieces (8) from their processing position to the conveying device (5).